Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kylee Brinkman, owner of The Bowl, located in Naples, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Bowl is an organic acai bowl & smoothie cafe, locally owned and operated! We serve the healthy, happy people of SWFL, not just bowls and smoothies but also organic coffee, matcha & kombucha on tap!
Tell us about yourself
After returning back to Naples from California, I quickly realized there was something missing in Naples - acai bowls! I saw this as an opportunity for an acai bowl & smoothie shop and took it! I personally created each and every recipe on the menu with a lot of love and only the best of ingredients; the entire store is organic and dairy-free, not to mention we only use 100% compostable cups, lids, bowls, spoons, and straws!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would have to say successfully opening my first two stores with a newborn baby in tow. My son Bodie (Barefoot Bodie Bowl) and my daughter Isla (Islamorada Bowl) were both born weeks before/after my first two store openings! I had a bit of a breather with my 3rd store; no baby that time!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The balancing act of life and work. As the sole owner of The Bowl, I feel the heavyweight of its success riding on my shoulders. It's never easy, and I'm always working on it, but I have definitely found more of a groove in the last few years.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be bold, be daring, be confident!
- Don't make any decisions based on fear.
- Always ask for help with you need it, and keep an open mind. Your employees are your best asset, and they have valid ideas that can help your business to grow and become even more successful.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
'Good Vibes Only' is not only our motto but also a way of life! We're thankful to be able to be a part of the SWFL community and hope to see you soon!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.the-bowl.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebowl.naples
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.bowl/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.